KARACHI:
Pakistan has a high incidence of tuberculosis (TB). It is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, but can also impact other parts of the body, including the brain, spine, and kidneys. It is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide and disproportionately affects low and middle-income countries.
The condition is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. TB is a highly contagious disease. Most people exposed to TB do not develop the disease as their immune systems can fight off the bacteria. However, people with weak immune systems i.e., those with HIV, malnutrition, or diabetes, are at a higher risk of developing TB. The symptoms of TB can vary depending on which part of the body is affected. The most common symptom is a persistent cough that lasts for more than two weeks. Other symptoms may include fever, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, chest pain, and coughing up blood.
If left untreated, TB can be fatal. The disease can be treated with a combination of antibiotics and adherence to the medication regimen. To prevent the spread of the disease, patients experiencing symptoms or those with risk factors must immediately seek screening. Infected individuals should cover their mouths and nose when coughing or sneezing to reduce the risks of others contracting the disease. Health authorities must raise awareness about TB and encourage people to consult doctors. The authorities should invest in research to improve treatments and survival rates.
Pardeep Kumar
Tando Jam
Published in The Express Tribune, March 28th, 2023.
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